OPAP Arena
Athens, Greece
Michalis Kritikopoulos Stadium
Kaisariani Greece
The Michalis Kritikopoulos Stadium, also known as the Kessariani Municipal Stadium, is a distinctive football venue located on the eastern edge of Athens, Greece. Situated at the foothills of Mount Hymettus, the stadium is built within the unique setting of a former quarry. It serves as the historic home ground for Ethnikos Asteras and has frequently been used as a temporary home for other professional Athenian clubs. With a capacity of 4,851, the stadium is highly regarded for its proximity to the pitch and its scenic, rugged surroundings.
Capacity
4.851
History of the stadium
The stadium was built in 1998 to provide the district of Kessariani with a modern professional facility. It replaced the historic « Near East » stadium as the primary home for Ethnikos Asteras. Originally known as the Kessariani National Stadium, it was renamed in 2007 to honor Michalis Kritikopoulos, one of the greatest Greek footballers of the 1970s. The venue has hosted numerous high-profile matches, including Greek Super League fixtures and national cup games, consistently serving as a reliable alternative for Athens-based clubs during stadium renovations elsewhere in the city.
Architecture and design
The architecture of the Michalis Kritikopoulos Stadium is defined by its unusual site in a steep-sided quarry. This natural geography provides a dramatic backdrop and helps contain the sound within the arena. The stadium features two main stands—the East and West—and a smaller North stand behind one of the goals. It is a « pure » football stadium without a running track, ensuring that spectators are close to the action. The natural grass pitch is maintained to professional standards, and the stadium is equipped with floodlights for evening events.
Atmosphere and matchday experience
The atmosphere at the stadium is often described as intimate and intense. Because the stands are built into the side of a hill, they offer a clear view of the field from almost every angle. Fans from Kessariani are known for their strong local pride, often turning matches into a community event. The surrounding sports complex, which includes five-a-side fields and training grounds, ensures a constant sporting energy in the area, even outside of professional matchdays.
Location and accessibility
The stadium is located in the Kessariani district, approximately 4 kilometers from the center of Athens. It is easily accessible via the Athens Metro (Line 3), with the Evangelismos station being the closest major hub. From the station, local bus lines 223 and 224 lead directly to the stadium terminus. For those driving, the stadium is situated near the Hymettus Ring Road, making it accessible for travelers coming from the northern or southern suburbs of the capital.
Origin of the stadium name
The stadium bears the name of Michalis Kritikopoulos, a legendary striker who began his career in Kessariani before achieving national fame with Ethnikos Asteras and Olympiacos. Known for his sportsmanship and goal-scoring ability, Kritikopoulos was a beloved figure in Greek football. He passed away in 2002 during a charity football match, and the naming of the stadium in 2007 serves as a lasting tribute to his contribution to the sport and his connection to his home neighborhood.
How to get to Michalis Kritikopoulos Stadium
The most reliable way to reach the stadium using public transport is to take Metro Line 3 to the Evangelismos station and then board bus #224 to the Kessariani terminus. The bus stops right outside the stadium entrance. If traveling by car, follow Ethnikis Antistaseos Street, the main thoroughfare of Kessariani, all the way to its eastern end where the residential area meets the slopes of Mount Hymettus.
Best seats, view and atmosphere
The West Stand is generally preferred by visitors as it offers the best facilities and is where the main seating area is located. Because of the stadium’s layout within a quarry, the top rows of the stands provide an excellent panoramic view of both the pitch and the rocky cliffs of Mount Hymettus. For those seeking the loudest atmosphere, seats near the local supporter sections in the East Stand are the best place to experience the game like a local.
Where to eat and drink near Michalis Kritikopoulos Stadium
Kessariani is famous throughout Athens for its traditional tavernas and « mezedopolia. » The main square and the streets leading up to the stadium are lined with historic eateries where fans gather for grilled meats and local appetizers. « To Koutouki tou Kallinikou » and various spots along Ethnikis Antistaseos Street are popular pre-match destinations. Inside the stadium complex, small snack bars serve coffee, water, and standard Greek stadium snacks during matchdays.
Good to know
The stadium is a safe and welcoming venue, but visitors should be aware that the area can become quite cool in the evening due to its location at the foot of the mountain. Parking in the immediate vicinity can be limited during high-profile matches, so public transport is highly recommended. As with all professional sports in Greece, ticket purchases often require a fan ID and are largely managed through digital systems, so it is advisable to check the home team’s ticketing portal before arriving at the ground.
